However, it will remain open during Halloween weekend, when tens of thousands are expected to arrive in Derry for festivities. SDLP councillor John Boyle said keeping the line open for Halloween was the right decision by Translink.

The disruption is to allow the completion of resignalling works and a passing loop on the Coleraine to Derry line. The closure dates will be October 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 and November 7-8.

All Derry train services will operate between Belfast and Portrush as per the current timetable.

Two bus substitution services will operate between Coleraine and Derry (direct) and Coleraine and Bellarena serving Castlerock.

Mr Boyle said: "We have been waiting far too long for this upgrade between delays and under estimation of the costs, so it is great it is progressing well.

"It will be a bit of an inconvenience for many that their weekend journey will be interrupted over the next few weekends and passengers will have to use the bus instead, but you have to crack a few eggs to make an omelette.

"I am glad to see that Translink, in consultation with the council, will keep the service fully operational on Halloween weekend when there are hundreds if not thousands travelling to Derry from Belfast and Coleraine."